Manly confirm Stewart NRL deal registered

Ian McCullough

Manly officials say Brett Stewart's contract has finally been registered by the NRL and the NSW fullback will be available to play in round one against Brisbane.

Stewart signed a new four-year contract with the Sea Eagles last year after months of negotiations, but it was rejected by salary cap auditor Ian Schubert.

However, the club confirmed on Thursday that all outstanding issues had been resolved.

Chairman Scott Penn said on Wednesday players might have to be released to accommodate Stewart but a statement on the club's website said no more players will be leaving other than Liam Foran and Vic Mauro who were offloaded to Super League side Salford.

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Manly have been hindered by a number of their players being on back-ended contracts which were agreed under former coach Des Hasler.

"The club has been working closely with the NRL for some time and have had to comply, like every other NRL club, to get to this point," Sea Eagles general manager David Perry said.

"I understand there has been a degree of frustration in relation to the issue but this process takes time and is complicated for all involved.

"This is the first time that the Sea Eagles have faced such an issue, however it is not unprecedented with other clubs over the years.

"We can now look forward to getting on with a big year of football and a promising season for the game."